Books Like...
'Goodbye Paradise' by Sarina Bowen is a heartwarming story about two boys, Caleb and Josh, who escape a religious polygamist cult known as 'Paradise.' The book explores their journey as they navigate the outside world, meeting new friends like Washington and forming a found family. The plot delves into themes of coming of age, faith versus doubt, family, survival, and sacrificial love. The writing style, with a dual first-person point of view from Caleb and Josh, captures the innocence and wonder of the main characters, providing a refreshing perspective for readers.
The story starts with Josh and Caleb leaving the compound to embark on an adventure, facing challenges and self-discovery along the way. As they navigate the complexities of their past and the outside world, they find acceptance, love, and a sense of belonging with their newfound family. The book also touches on the harsh realities of life within the cult, the struggles of self-acceptance, and the growth of the characters as they come to terms with their identities and desires.
If you liked Goodbye Paradise, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Fake Out' by Eden Finley follows the story of Maddox, who told a lie in high school to make breaking up with his girlfriend easier, claiming he was gay. Years later, when his ex invites him to her wedding and asks him to bring his boyfriend, Maddox enlists the help of his best friend's brother, Damon, to be his fake boyfriend for the weekend. As they navigate the charade, both characters have to confront their own baggage and feelings, leading to unexpected developments in their relationship. The writing style combines humor, romance, and relatable characters that keep the readers engaged and entertained throughout the book.
“I can’t believe I let you talk me into this,” I grumble as Stacy and I leave the subway. I tug down my ballcap—a nervous habit I’ve had since my pitching days. The coach always knew I was struggling ... - #2
Save:Leo Loves Aries by Anyta Sunday is a slow burn romance novel that follows the story of Theo and Jamie. The book is filled with snarky banter, sweet moments, and strong chemistry between the main characters. The plot revolves around Theo's obliviousness towards Jamie's feelings, leading to a gradual progression of their relationship from friendship to love. The writing style is described as funny, warm, and sweet, with a focus on character development and interactions. The book also touches on themes of friendship, trust, jealousy, and love in a fun and entertaining way.
A year ago last January, he and Sam were making snow angels right here in front of his two-story Victorian rental. His sister Leone and her boyfriend Derek had joined them. They had laughed so hard he... - #3
Save:'The Locker Room' by Amy Lane is a heartfelt story that follows the journey of Xander and Chris from their teenage years to adulthood. The book explores themes of first love, coming out, and the challenges faced by gay athletes in the world of professional sports. The writing style is described as emotional and captivating, with a focus on the evolving relationship between the two main characters over a span of fifteen years.
Some guys wore suits after a game—snazzy, top of the line, slick, bright ties, newest-cut shirt suits—the kind that impressed the snot out of fans and fucks alike, but not Chris and Xander. When they ... - #4
Save:'Him' by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen revolves around a romance between two hockey players, Wes and Jamie, who were once best friends. The story follows their journey from childhood friends to lovers, exploring themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and friendship. The writing style is described as engaging, filled with dual points of view, explicit scenes, and a mix of tenderness and steamy moments. The plot captures the emotional depth of the characters as they navigate their relationship and personal growth.
Over the weekend, my hockey team clinched the first two rounds of the NCAA playoffs, and now we’re headed to the Frozen Four. I somehow got a B-minus on a history paper I wrote in an exhaustion-induce... - #5
Save:Riven by Roan Parrish is a gripping tale of two men, Caleb and Theo, who are drawn together by their shared passion for music. As they navigate the complexities of fame, addiction, and personal struggles, their connection deepens, leading to a journey of self-discovery and healing. The novel beautifully portrays the intimacy and challenges of collaborating on music, while also delving into themes of love, courage, and finding hope in the midst of darkness. Parrish's writing style is described as sharp, engaging, and emotionally resonant, making the reader feel deeply invested in the characters' journeys.
That was the headline that accompanied the cover of Groove magazine that came out today, and it was the reason I was hiding in my dressing room from the rest of the band. I could already imagine Ven, ... - #6
Save:In "Heat Stroke," Marcus, a lovable himbo, is drawn to Jamie, a smart and confident man who has been hurt in the past. Despite their differences, their journey to love is full of laughter, passion, pain, and acceptance. The book explores the natural and genuine love between the two characters, set against the backdrop of a beach town where they work as lifeguards and bartenders, navigating their feelings and the challenges of being in a closeted relationship.
Tessa Bailey's writing in her first M M book is praised for its hotness, deep emotions, and well-developed characters. The story is described as cute, funny, steamy, and emotionally impactful, with a focus on love, passion, and acceptance, making it a compelling and heartfelt read that tugs at the heartstrings.
Jamie rolled his eyes as “Baby One More Time” kicked off again over the Castle Gate loudspeakers. He’d been keeping a mental tally all night. Currently, the score was Jamie: five, Marcus: seven. And i... - #7
Save:'Pisces Hooks Taurus' by Anyta Sunday follows the story of Zane, a young Kiwi artist who is running out of time to find love and stay in the US. With a month left on his visa, Zane plans to find the perfect woman through a dating app, but his path crosses with Beckett, an English professor, leading to a slow burn romance filled with humor, banter, and heartfelt moments. The book explores the growing attraction between the innocent and romantic Zane and the mature, intellectual, yet guarded Beckett as they navigate their feelings and build a deep friendship that eventually blossoms into love.
The writing style in 'Pisces Hooks Taurus' is praised for its slow burn romance, engaging banter, and the realistic and heartfelt portrayal of the relationship between Zane and Beckett. The book is noted for its incorporation of literary quotes at the beginning of each chapter, adding a touch of romance and charm to the story, as readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and love between two complex characters with unique personalities and challenges.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Signs of Love ) - #8
Save:Becoming Calder by Mia Sheridan is a unique and emotional story set in a religious cult called Acadia. The book follows the forbidden love story of Calder and Eden, two individuals who grow up in Acadia and find solace in each other despite the strict rules and expectations of the cult. As they navigate their feelings and the constraints of their society, the reader is taken on a journey of love, courage, and heartbreaking decisions. The plot is filled with twists and turns, exploring heavy topics and showcasing the growth of the characters as they strive for freedom and happiness.
The writing style of Mia Sheridan in Becoming Calder is praised for its ability to evoke strong emotions in the readers. The author skillfully crafts a world that is both captivating and frustrating, drawing the audience into the lives of Calder and Eden as they fight against the constraints of their environment. The book delves into themes of forbidden love, courage, and sacrifice, leaving readers on an emotional rollercoaster as they root for the characters to find their own paths in a world that seeks to control them.
It was a Tuesday, the day she showed up. I remember because we were watering the bean crops, and the bean crops only got watered the third day of every week. I heard the white jeep before I saw it, an...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sign of Love ) - #9
Save:'Finding Eden' by Mia Sheridan is a continuation and conclusion of the duology that includes 'Becoming Calder.' It tells the story of Eden and Calder, two individuals who grew up in captivity in an extreme cult and must navigate survival and assimilation into normal life. explores themes of love, resilience, and overcoming significant hardships. Readers mentioned that the plot is inspired by Greek mythology and involves a forbidden love story between the main characters.
I blinked and snapped back to the present. I had zoned out for a minute, my mind conjuring up the many times I'd tried to engage Claire and her brother Charles in small conversation over the years, ev...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sign of Love ) - #10
Save:'Home and Away' by Samantha Wayland is a heartwarming story about Callum Morrison, a closeted hockey player, who finds love and family with Rupert Smythe, the new manager of the Moncton Wildcats. The book explores themes of self-acceptance, family, and overcoming personal struggles. Through witty dialogues and well-developed characters, the author skillfully weaves a tale of love, growth, and resilience. With a mix of emotional depth and humor, the story follows the journey of Callum, Rupert, and a cast of supporting characters as they navigate relationships, challenges, and the complexities of life.
The plot unfolds as Callum and Rupert's relationship evolves from enemies to lovers, intertwined with the heartwarming story of Oliver, a four-year-old boy in need of a family. Samantha Wayland's writing style captivates readers with its emotional richness, realistic portrayal of relationships, and the gradual development of love and trust among the characters. From the chemistry between the main characters to the supportive secondary characters, 'Home and Away' is a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of identity, love, and the power of chosen family.
Rupert had suspected the man was a pain in the arse after the first time they spoke on the phone, and more or less confirmed it on a group Skype a week later. Callum’s biting tone and rampant arroganc...
